Danish Study Sheds Light on PV-1 Gene

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Weight-loss plateaus are one of the most common challenges faced by individuals trying to shed significant pounds. Slowdowns occur when the body adapts to a calorie deficit by reducing its metabolism and conserving energy as a survival mechanism often referred to as "starvation mode." While helpful during periods of food scarcity, it hinders sustained weight loss by reducing calorie burning.

However, a study published in the journal of Cell Metabolism conducted by scientists at the University of Southern Denmark may hold the key to overcoming challenges caused by this metabolic obstacle. By focusing on a liver-specific gene called plasmalemma vehicle-associated protein (PV-1), researchers were able to change how the liver in mice processed energy during low-calorie consumption.

Instead of shifting to fat oxidation, the livers of PV-1-suppressed mice continued to burn carbohydrates, diverting fatty acids to muscle tissue rather than storing it or processing it in the liver. This not only maintained the mice’s calorie-burning metabolic rate but prevented the body from entering "starvation mode." The breakthrough provides new insights into possibly preventing weight loss plateaus and mice also experienced additional benefits without adverse effects.

NOTE: The University of Southern Denmark’s PV-1 study on metabolism was initially published in the journal Cell Metabolism. The team of research scientists included Daniel Hansen, Jasmin Jensen, Christian Andersen, Peter Jakobsgaard, Jesper Havelund, Line Lauritsen, Samuel Mandacaru, Majken Siersbæk, Oliver Shackleton, Jonathan Brewer, Blagoy Blagoev, Nils Færgeman, and Kim Ravnskjær (all from SDU). Collaborators from Japan, the USA, and Finland. Danish scientists suggest that targeting the PLVAP gene could be key to overcoming common barriers by offering new hope for those with significant weight-loss goals.

How Cells Trigger Metabolic Changes

Found in hepatic stellate cells, the coding for the PV-1 protein plays a key role in how the liver processes fatty acids, especially during fasting. But after suppressing the PLVAP gene in mice, rather than transitioning to fat oxidation during fasting, their livers continued to burn carbohydrates for energy. By maintaining normal carbohydrate metabolism, their livers can increase insulin sensitivity as well as offer a host of potential metabolic benefits.

So the recent Danish research, not only opens the door to exciting opportunities for the development of future weight and metabolic-related treatments by harnessing the PV-1 gene’s ability in overcoming weight-loss plateaus but suggests it may amplify the effects of other medications. Certainly receptor agonists that mimic the naturally produced hormone may benefit from the ability to maintain burning carbohydrates with daily reductions in food intake.

This novel mechanism of cell-to-cell communication within the liver that could reshape our understanding of how energy storage and consumption should be managed. While no medication can fully replace the importance of a healthy lifestyle, these advancements offer hope for overcoming the body’s natural resistance to calorie restriction. Moreover, targeting the PV-1 protein could reduce weight-loss plateaus that could lead to more sustainable weight control.

Kickstart Your Journey for Weight Control

Advancements in understanding how the body processes sugar and manages fat oxidation could deepen the effectiveness of using a receptor agonist. For example, the liver’s natural response to low food intake involves shifting from glycogen to fat reserves as an energy source and this plays a pivotal role in long-term weight management. By improving metabolic function and glucose regulation, these medications could also address common challenges like excess calorie storage and slow fat-burning processes related to weight loss plateaus. 

In addition, for over 35 years, the Metabolic Research Center’s team of experts have been personalizing science-backed weight loss programs that have integrated the latest science with one-on-one coaching and personalized menu plans to deliver a holistic approach to restoring metabolic health and well-being. Now, MRC’s network of medical providers work to ensure that best weight loss tools like compounded medications can empower you to build healthier habits for weight loss that sticks.

Whether you’re battling stubborn weight plateaus or just need a sustainable approach to improve your metabolic health, prescription medications can transform how you approach weight loss once you qualify. Visit us at the medical weight loss clinic Southcentral Indiana to see how our experienced team can help you achieve your goals for healthy living. All it takes is a quick email or call to learn more about our science-based solutions. So don’t forget to schedule a free consultation today, as your first step toward improved metabolic wellness.